October 31, 2012
10 Essential things to do in Eastbourne: #3 Go foraging!
People say there’s no such thing as a free lunch, but I can only imagine that they’ve never visited Beachy Head and the South Downs. That place is full of fodder!
It’s the end of October and the Stanger clan of The Guesthouse East in Eastbourne have only just worked their way through their enormous stash of blackberries, and they’re the ones that somehow escaped the clutches of the Amazing Blackberry Burglar, aka our youngest.
But it isn’t just berries you’ll find by the bucketful.
Now, I’m no Bear Grylls, used to living off the land for weeks on end, but whenever I’m running up on the Downs I’m practically falling over the field mushrooms and other assorted fungi.
Eastbourne Hotelier? I should sell up and set up a swanky organic stall in the Enterprise Centre with all the potential goodies on offer.
But if furtive wandering around the undergrowth fills you with fear how about casting a line into the English channel and picking up mackerel, assorted flatfish and, if you’re prepared to do some homework, a majestic sea bass? I head out after them on a kayak, but there’s a fishing club at the end of the pier who will hire you the appropriate kit or you can bring your own and simply try your luck from the beach.
Of course, it’s always a delight to enjoy the fruits of your labour, but simply being out there in the fresh air with a truly inspiring backdrop is usually enough and, besides, the kids sleep for about 14 hours after charging around the greenery so it’s a win-win (or at least it would be if I were back into the dreadful corporate-speak of my former life).
If you fancy a holiday or short break do call us on 01323 722774 and we can provide you with some lovely accommodation in Eastbourne – importantly, the suites come their own kitchens with a fridge to fill with your plunder so that you don’t have to follow my daughter and try to eat everything in one go.